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Nick J
29-05-09, 06:57 PM
Graeme,Tommy cheers guys.

Vaughan... I must admit I was never a huge fan of them tbh but as manta mirrors are getting hugely common nowadays I'm glad to be able to have something that is definatly rarer in the stubbys and the fact they still retain the standardish look is just a huge bonus!

Joe Richardson
29-05-09, 07:51 PM
They look stunning Nick:thumb:

Great work:)

Benn
29-05-09, 08:55 PM
Gutters trims look good. Love love love the mirrors! Wanna make more some?

Spare wheel looks very cool, hope it was stainless....lol

sulphur
29-05-09, 09:04 PM
Lovely lovely lovely lovely. 'Nuff said. :thumb:

Nick J
29-05-09, 09:05 PM
Gutters trims look good. Love love love the mirrors! Wanna make more some?

Spare wheel looks very cool, hope it was stainless....lol

Cheers fella! Mirrors primarily were shortened by Gaz, Give him a pm you never know as Im sure you could do what Ive done etc... Stainless? Me? Of course! cost me approx £4 for the privelege! lol

Joe,sulphur... cheers! :)

Jay
29-05-09, 09:08 PM
Everytime i see this car it makes me want it more and more.

Dec16v
29-05-09, 09:43 PM
You're living out my dream lol :)

Dec

sulphur
29-05-09, 09:46 PM
Everytime i see this car it makes me want it more and more.

In reference to this Nick, could you put a price on it now? Or if you were to advertise it again, would it be up for roughly the same figure as before? :)

Geordie-Chris
29-05-09, 09:53 PM
Looks brilliant as ever mate - your a very talented guy, with an excellent eye for detail!!
Now its looking extra extra bufty are you going to be to scared to use it hard on the roads?? Hope not, I'm sure its an excellent drive too!

Dec16v
29-05-09, 10:33 PM
Looks brilliant as ever mate - your a very talented guy, with an excellent eye for detail!!
Now its looking extra extra bufty are you going to be to scared to use it hard on the roads?? Hope not, I'm sure its an excellent drive too!


I can imagine Nicks Nova is a blast to drive, but empathise with him if he feels scared to use it to its full potential.

Dec

Nick J
29-05-09, 10:34 PM
Everytime i see this car it makes me want it more and more.

Cheers Jay... I'll take it as a compliment :)

Dec... cheers fella!

Geordie Chris... cheers fella! I do try to use it properly tbh! I just know my limits though unlike some. :)

Sulphur... The thing is even though it looks better than it ever has and the spec has got bigger since a few years back when I attempted to sell to fund our house purchase, I cant really see it being worth any more than 5k? tops As it would just be unsellable. But Im going to be totally honest here... After billing this year I think Im going to put it up for sale. Ive reached a point where Its almost how Ive always wanted it and I'd possibly like to maybe start another project. My feelings may change but at the moment I think thats whats going to happen. Until then weather permitting I'll be enjoying it as much as possible.

Nick.

Benn
29-05-09, 10:58 PM
Cheers fella! Mirrors primarily were shortened by Gaz, Give him a pm you never know as Im sure you could do what Ive done etc... Stainless? Me? Of course! cost me approx £4 for the privelege! lol


Good man, i'll keep my mirrors, no ones copied them yet..lol

The Simps
29-05-09, 11:09 PM
Friggin love this car! Really looking forward to seeing it for the 1st time in the flesh at Billing.

scott.parker
29-05-09, 11:44 PM
Car looks awsome mate. ill look into the srtubby mirrors next yr.

Nick J
30-05-09, 09:06 AM
Good man, i'll keep my mirrors, no ones copied them yet..lol


Thats the thing isnt it.... trying to find the little things that set your car apart from others really. ;)

Simps... cheers! Isnt It your old thats just gone up for sale on here? looks well on the porsche rims!

Scott... thanks fella... stubbys have taken a little time but will look well for it etc. :)

Benn
30-05-09, 10:27 PM
Yeah deffo, its always the wat forward.

The Simps
31-05-09, 02:09 AM
Simps... cheers! Isnt It your old thats just gone up for sale on here? looks well on the porsche rims!


Yeah, he regretably needs to sell. He's always texting me saying how much he loves the car. Just hope it goes to someone who won't just rape it :cry:

Porsche rims look ok but preferred the softstars personally but would have always loved azev-a's for it. Was next on my list after a diff.

sulphur
31-05-09, 02:30 AM
Worth 5k all day Nick, seriously think about it though. There isn't another nova like yours around, nor one in near condition. I'm sure you'd have to interview potential buyers, and scope out their storage facilities first to make sure it'll be looked after. lol

Nick J
31-05-09, 10:43 AM
Yeah deffo, its always the wat forward.

Sure is! :)

Simps.. I think maybe a little lower like aamir's and it would look spot on, a little more individuality for the car although azev's a's would have done the same... normally seen on the ford scene (rst's/esc cos) arent they etc.

Sulphur... Yes like I say If I do decide Its to go I will be realistic with the price although It'd break for more I simply couldnt do it!

Nick.

Benn
31-05-09, 11:37 AM
Dont brake it or sell it.

craig green
31-05-09, 11:41 AM
Dibs on the..........

gaznovalet
31-05-09, 12:15 PM
Nick them mirrors are looking great mate, very nice work you have put into perfecting them!!! top effort indeed my freind. . .

Martin
31-05-09, 12:21 PM
Lol nick.. ive just started a page one and got here.. i forgot which update i last saw its been that lng since i looked..

Great work fella.. cant wait for billing :D Be great to see the car again.. its been about 2years since i 1st & last seen it.. be good to meet you again too

Adam
31-05-09, 12:33 PM
Stunning work as expected from you :)

Nick J
31-05-09, 12:35 PM
Dibs on the..........

Lets not go there yet!! lol Im not certain of anything at the moment.

Gaz... Thanks fella, I think you could make a fortune out of making them you know! Hope everything's going ok with the missus/son etc :)

Martin... Long time no chat, be good to catch up etc, I guess I'll be seeing you at billing!

Adam... Cheers fella, I see yours is coming along well too! :)

Martin
31-05-09, 12:43 PM
i kno the last time we spke was at that PNG Meet all them years ago wen spud ha his red nova

Nick J
31-05-09, 12:51 PM
i kno the last time we spke was at that PNG Meet all them years ago wen spud ha his red nova

That was sometime ago! Well Im on with JOV this year and your normally with them are you not?

hybridturbo
31-05-09, 01:03 PM
Top work Nick :thumb:

Will the bolt that holds the spare wheel down be trimmed so the centre cap can be refitted?

Nick J
31-05-09, 02:12 PM
Top work Nick :thumb:

Will the bolt that holds the spare wheel down be trimmed so the centre cap can be refitted?

Thanks fella, You know I did think about that but I dont think its possible when using the original vaux retainer, As It sits in the centre of the wheel utilising the same inner part of the wheel that the centre cap uses to click into if you see what I mean. And if I did away with that retainer the current setup wouldnt work to hold the wheel firmly in place and Id have to use a strap or something similar which I didnt want to do. Would look better though so I know what you mean.

Martin
31-05-09, 03:07 PM
nice to here that nick.. yep i'm with them.. that means i dnt have to go far to look at it lol

gaznovalet
01-06-09, 12:51 AM
Gaz... Thanks fella, I think you could make a fortune out of making them you know! Hope everything's going ok with the missus/son etc :)

i wish i cud find the time and patience for making some more up Nick mate lol
the misus on mend now doing good, my son stil awaiting his operation will be a massif relief wen thats over and he is ok, thanks for asking, thers a unit possibly coming up for rent on my doorstep got a phonecall yesterday regarding it and already has spraybooth in.

Nick J
02-06-09, 06:15 PM
Gaz... Thanks fella, I think you could make a fortune out of making them you know! Hope everything's going ok with the missus/son etc :)

i wish i cud find the time and patience for making some more up Nick mate lol
the misus on mend now doing good, my son stil awaiting his operation will be a massif relief wen thats over and he is ok, thanks for asking, thers a unit possibly coming up for rent on my doorstep got a phonecall yesterday regarding it and already has spraybooth in.

Sounds like things are looking up for you fella, great news. :)

gaznovalet
02-06-09, 06:36 PM
yeah Nick pal cud possibly take the unit dependant on rent and any contracts it shud have as wud be ideal for me, better than my last place as its literaly walking distance from my house. hows the mirrors looking now they done? and is glass sorted?

Nick J
02-06-09, 06:59 PM
yeah Nick pal cud possibly take the unit dependant on rent and any contracts it shud have as wud be ideal for me, better than my last place as its literaly walking distance from my house. hows the mirrors looking now they done? and is glass sorted?

Yeh I guess rent has to be reasonable to make it viable etc, Had the new mirror glasses cut today and all went to plan, Ive started shaping the corners up gently using a belt sander and hopefully I'll have them finished tommorow ready for a quick trial fit before bonding the glass to the backplate etc. All being well Id like them finished this week to fit at the weekend but we'll see how things go, Im a little behind as Ive lost a few days doing an ata senior paint assesment at thatcham for work But I cant wait to get the mirrors mounted on the car! :)

gaznovalet
02-06-09, 07:16 PM
thats good news on mirrors glass Nick lookin forward to see them finished and also fitted. Automotive Technician Accredition how was it? did your place of work put you thruw cos is it around £350 ? and was it same old stuff regarding plastic repairs, locals- blending- fade out, applying laquer and textured finishes etc?

Nick J
02-06-09, 07:22 PM
thats good news on mirrors glass Nick lookin forward to see them finished and also fitted. Automotive Technician Accredition how was it? did your place of work put you thruw cos is it around £350 ? and was it same old stuff regarding plastic repairs, locals- blending- fade out, applying laquer and textured finishes etc?

Almost spot on with the description! I think the cost has gone up though.... almost 1k by the time work had paid for my hotel etc! It was quite intense but I passed it which was the main!

gaznovalet
02-06-09, 07:40 PM
yer well done on passing that Nick good feather to have in your cap i had thought about it myself before and looked into it but no real point wen was working for myself, hopefully i wont have forgotten how to paint if and wen i get back to grafting on cars lol. the old GTIs cud probably do with a good clean and service.

Edd
03-06-09, 01:35 PM
This nova is in a league of its own. AWESOME :thumb:.

Nick J
05-06-09, 06:38 PM
This nova is in a league of its own. AWESOME :thumb:.

Cheers fella :)

Little update then guys, After a long weekend I got back in work tuesday only to find our glass man was due a few hours later... Bonus! Upon arrival I handed him two fresh mirror glasses which he cut down leaving me to do the final shaping. I underestimated this to be honest thinking it wouldnt take long.... Big mistake! I started off using a belt sander only to find it was too course and was chipping tiny pieces off the front of the glasses. So I opted to use the orbital sander instead. In short in took around an hour plus on each glass but I got there in the end! After a quick trial fit to make sure they went in ok the glasses were stuck to the backplates and clipped in. One quick coat of wax on them and thats it JOB DONE! well nearly If I want to be fussy I could shape the glasses a little more but they'll do for now. I got home that evening and I was straight into the garage to get them on! I was tempted before now just to see what they looked like but I thought Id wait until they were finished etc. I wasnt dissapointed, here we go one set of stubby mirrors mounted up............


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip279.jpg?t=1244223065
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip278.jpg?t=1244223090
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip281.jpg?t=1244223181

I'll get some better pics at the weekend, Im sure after looking at Matt's mine are a little bit smaller and I think they are the shortest ones Ive ever seen to be honest! But all in all Im really pleased how they look and I cant see myself ever changing the mirrors again now. :)

Benn
05-06-09, 06:44 PM
Love the mirrors dude,they do look great. What can you see from inside tho?

Nick J
05-06-09, 06:48 PM
Love the mirrors dude,they do look great. What can you see from inside tho?

Cheers dude! well....... Ive havent actually been out yet so Im not sure! lol But there on original glasses and are using the standard adjuster so with a bit of luck I'll keep my fingers crossed they are no worse visibility wise than the manta jobbies the cars worn for the past three years. :)

Jay
05-06-09, 06:48 PM
Looks very nice.

Nick J
05-06-09, 06:53 PM
Looks very nice.

cheers Jay :)

vaughanmc
05-06-09, 07:08 PM
Look F'ING minted mate :)

Really really stubby lol I didn't think they'd be as 'short'

Can't wait to see some better pics with them on :D

Have some rep, if it'll let me

Dec16v
05-06-09, 07:10 PM
Dude, great work

krobinson
05-06-09, 07:40 PM
The look stunning Nick - good work :)

dan16v
05-06-09, 07:47 PM
They look stunning Nick! must be chuffed with them!

Nick J
05-06-09, 07:59 PM
cheers Dan,Dec and keith! Im very happy with the way the car looks...Its almost standardish look is great. This year at billing will see the car better than it ever has been in my eyes. Im looking forward to it. :)

gaznovalet
05-06-09, 08:35 PM
MINT ! great to see them finished and fitted Nick mate and now thats a proper pair of stubby mirrors !!!!! they look a millions dollars, youve done a top job pal with prep and paint and glass !!!!!
wish i had half a dozen more made up as the pms keep on coming in lol

John
05-06-09, 08:38 PM
stunning stuff as always Nick (think that's about the 3rd or 4th time i've said that in this thread lmao!)

scott.parker
05-06-09, 11:01 PM
Top job Nick, guess i best at some point have a crack at some!

The Simps
06-06-09, 12:13 AM
Top class, professional work as always mate.

Jeff16v
06-06-09, 07:47 AM
Ain't it funny how something a trivial as mirrors makes you rush home like a schoolboy with a porno mag.

Sounds like the bug is still strong which will make it harder to part with.....

Excellent work as usual Nick:thumb:

hybridturbo
06-06-09, 10:32 AM
:D Worth the wait Nick, top job :thumb:

Nick J
06-06-09, 12:54 PM
Scott,simps,Jeff,Hybridturbo..... thanks all for the comments! :)

A little update then, This morning was mot time! And although we'd already checked over everything before hand You just never know how stringent the tester is going to be. But After a usual task to get it on/off the four poster the tester was happy with everything he saw/checked so Im pleased to say all is well and nova has another years mot on it. :) The guy found it quite funny thats its only done 600 mile since its last mot! The only downside was the weather as its been raining all nite and this morning as well here. (something this car is not used too!) So the cars now filthy! all wheels will have to come off in the next few days to get the arches and insides of the wheels cleaned up. Also it was the first time I have used the stubby mirrors on the car too and I must say the vision is much better than I thought it would be! Although they arent as good as standard nova items they beat manta mirrors hands down! So jobs a good one :). Whilst I was out I took a few more piccys to show the mirrors a little better.......


Waiting to be tested....

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip285.jpg?t=1244287457
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip286.jpg?t=1244288702


And at home wet/rained on and dirty feeling sorry for itself lol .......


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip288.jpg?t=1244288823
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip289.jpg?t=1244288865

So now its taxed/tested and most things are sorted There's not much left to do apart from a few bits changing under the bonnet so its almost ready to grace billing again this year. :)

Mazz
06-06-09, 01:02 PM
loverlee stuff

gaznovalet
06-06-09, 01:15 PM
very nice Nick fella, mirrors look brilliant youve done a cracking job with them as i knew you wud. . .nova is awesome!

Matt
06-06-09, 01:23 PM
Looks pukka as always mate! Good result with the MOT too.

Bit of rain wont do it any harm atall!

:thumb:

Nick J
06-06-09, 04:37 PM
Looks pukka as always mate! Good result with the MOT too.

Bit of rain wont do it any harm atall!

:thumb:

Cheers fella, First time its seen the rain in ages and Im sure it wont do it any harm. It does take a while to clean up after using it in those conditions though! As Ive found out thisaft... who said painted wheelarches were a good idea lol

Cheers Gaz and Mazz :)

Benn
06-06-09, 05:11 PM
Looks awesome dude! Cant wait to see it..

Matt
06-06-09, 06:35 PM
who said painted wheelarches were a good idea lol


lol Try having white ones with white wheels and a white car! Nightmare. Looks cool when they're clean though I guess.

scott.parker
06-06-09, 08:35 PM
Humm Billing, who you showing it with? as if i cant go on with PNG i might even sign upto MIG to show mine, as i would love to show it on a stand there,never put any of my cars on show at Billing.

Scott

peester
06-06-09, 09:07 PM
i am quite suprised it passed schlammed stance styleee

Nick J
06-06-09, 10:44 PM
Humm Billing, who you showing it with? as if i cant go on with PNG i might even sign upto MIG to show mine, as i would love to show it on a stand there,never put any of my cars on show at Billing.

Scott

Im with jov this year fella, cant beat billing, best show of the year imo. :)

Nick J
06-06-09, 10:53 PM
i am quite suprised it passed schlammed stance styleee

Why wouldnt it fella? All arches are folded well out of the way and even in lock the tyres don't catch on the outside, If there was a problem with the front inside then Id raise it up or use some lock restrictors of martin hills old rack that I have. But as said the tester didnt find a problem. Im sure theres not just me on here with a car lowered on allesio's and had no issues come mot time. (keith's or Lee H's are two that spring to mind and have similar heights/setups to mine.) And regarding the rear as long as the rear springs relocate properly as they do so the rule book says there is no real issue is there? I think its down to tester descretion really.

Nick.

vaughanmc
07-06-09, 10:10 PM
Looking really good Nick, some nice pictures there

Again! The mirrors look awsome

Benn
07-06-09, 10:19 PM
Humm Billing, who you showing it with? as if i cant go on with PNG i might even sign upto MIG to show mine, as i would love to show it on a stand there,never put any of my cars on show at Billing.

Scott

Dooo it! Billing is the best show of the year by far!
I think its really good Png has got a stand this year. As time gos on and the stand gets bigger it will be great for the club.

I'm ok with mig, so you wont be alone..lol

Nick J
08-06-09, 05:30 PM
Dooo it! Billing is the best show of the year by far!
I think its really good Png has got a stand this year. As time gos on and the stand gets bigger it will be great for the club.

I'm ok with mig, so you wont be alone..lol

Agreed Scott! Dooo it! Its been my favourite vaux show of the year since I first went it 1998!

Vaughan... cheers fella! Tbh my camera's poo. I have a mate who has an uber expensive camera and is a pretty good photographer. He's going to do me a little shoot soon and get some proper pics. My pics never show the car to its full potential I feel. On the upshot The weathers looking ok here at the minute so I think I'll have to get it out and go for a run this eves!

Nick.

Benn
08-06-09, 06:40 PM
I wanna take pics of your car too...

vaughanmc
11-06-09, 02:22 PM
Nick, how did you get the glass to stay secure in your mirrors mate ?

scott.parker
11-06-09, 03:23 PM
lol You just been thinking about what i said havent you Vaughan..

Nick J
11-06-09, 05:29 PM
Nick, how did you get the glass to stay secure in your mirrors mate ?

By using the original backing plate that the glass sticks to... On the back of that plate is where the adjustment rod clips into etc which holds them in. If you go back a few pages you should be able to see what I mean. :)

More updates later on guys!

Nick.

dan16v
11-06-09, 09:10 PM
Awaiting update!

vaughanmc
11-06-09, 09:19 PM
lol You just been thinking about what i said havent you Vaughan..

I was so mate, got me stumped lol

One of my mirrors was an internal adjusting one and one wasn't, will that matter ?

Nick J
11-06-09, 10:09 PM
Awaiting update!

Sorry Guys update will have to wait until tommorow now... spent the last 4 hours underneath and around the car cleaning after a few trips out in poor weather to have a few little goodies fitted! But Im really impressed with the additions and Im sure most of you will like too. keep your eyes peeled :)

vaughanmc
11-06-09, 10:15 PM
Sounds exciting Nick

You be at Billing on the Saturday ? :)

matthew172
12-06-09, 03:43 PM
pics pics

scott.parker
12-06-09, 04:26 PM
Sorry Guys update will have to wait until tommorow now... spent the last 4 hours underneath and around the car cleaning after a few trips out in poor weather to have a few little goodies fitted! But Im really impressed with the additions and Im sure most of you will like too. keep your eyes peeled :)

Humm... TB's?

Nick J
12-06-09, 05:47 PM
Sounds exciting Nick

You be at Billing on the Saturday ? :)

Not exciting as such tbh but Im just really pleased with the look the new bits have given the car. I should all being well be at billing fri-sun. Your mirror.. the non internal adjusting one... Im unsure on this as I havent used that type of mirror but I know they work differently as they are on a ball/socket connection unlike the other type being rod/clip etc. I bet the ball/socket type would be a pain to click the shorter glasses into for one! For the money It would cost Id buy a rod/adjuster type maybe....

Matt... You've seen pics already!

Scott.. They would be nice but for what Id gain I wouldnt imagine they wouldnt be worth the extra ££££'s to me anyhow. Plus my car budget is £0 Now! lol

Paul
12-06-09, 05:48 PM
+rep for having such a clean nova and removing the one let of this car IMO. Them stubby's look a thousand times better, I hated the other mirrors, they dont suit Novas at all IMO, theyre all rounded and Novas are square, it looks the bollox Nick, Well done mate!

Martin
12-06-09, 06:11 PM
Nick.. if you find white glue type substance on your car at billing.. i will clean it off..(well only mine not any1 elses haha)

See you on the friday dude

Nick J
12-06-09, 06:30 PM
+rep for having such a clean nova and removing the one let of this car IMO. Them stubby's look a thousand times better, I hated the other mirrors, they dont suit Novas at all IMO, theyre all rounded and Novas are square, it looks the bollox Nick, Well done mate!

Cheers Paul... manta items were just me trying something new to me at the time etc. I agree with what your saying and Im very pleased with the new ones now.

Update time then guys! As said previously I was on a de-blinging mission with the engine bay this year. Last year was the first time Id had a car with so many chrome items but again it was something that Ive tried and didnt think it suited my car really hence the change. So remember these from previous posts........?


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip221.jpg?t=1244825738
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/Novawip107-1.jpg?t=1244825822
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip002-2.jpg?t=1244825992


These parts have been used to help create the cars new look in the bay etc... Wiper motor plate wasnt as straight forward as it seems as there is no earthing point that the original nova item uses on the bottom right hand corner of the plate and it wont work without it obviously! But a simple wire with a few connectors attached to various threads on the back of the plate so they cant be seen etc sorted that. All mounted up.....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip296.jpg?t=1244826295


Stainless wash bottle was sold and clean small nova item takes it place....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip297.jpg?t=1244826421


Freshly painted rocker cover,oil cap/new gasket on.....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip302.jpg?t=1244826553


The cambelt cover above was used as for a dummy run to see if I could get the holes cut correctly and in the right position. I also didnt want huge holes to show the verniers like some have, At billing last year I saw big chaps motor and got some advice from him on hole size/postion (cheers fella!) And after all the above this is what we have.....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip303.jpg?t=1244826875
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip300.jpg?t=1244826958


The new cover shows the Qed verniers well without the holes being huge. I would have liked to have them gloss black but obviously if I remove them the cars going to have to be setup/rolling roaded again so Im told and I dont have time for that so they'll have to do for now! As seen on the last pic above I also decided to remove the Sbd sticker from the plug cover again just for a more simple look. Unfortunatly this left behind a shallow recess in the cover!


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip304.jpg?t=1244827183


So at work today Ive rubbed it down to remove that recess...


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip305.jpg?t=1244827243


This will be relacqeured and refitted shortly etc. Lastly I spent yesterday evening cleaning everything as It was blathered due to a few trips out in wet weather within the past week or so. All arches cleaned and waxed up...


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip293.jpg?t=1244827365


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip295.jpg?t=1244827397


Everything I could get my hands on.... front panel,crossmember,arches,sills,underneath to some extent all got a wipe over to get the dirt off them. Fuel pump top/top mounts got a shine up too!


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip301.jpg?t=1244827585

Thats it for now guys, hope you like.

Nick.

Martin
12-06-09, 06:43 PM
nice one nick.. if i see any dirt on it at billing.. may i slap you? haha

krobinson
12-06-09, 06:57 PM
Sexy!

Martin
12-06-09, 07:01 PM
thanks keith..

dan16v
12-06-09, 08:40 PM
Pure sex Nick, looks so much better than before (if that was possible!), i think the header tank would be cool coated in satin black!, awsome work on the belt cover, takes some balls to cut up a carbon one!

Jeff16v
12-06-09, 09:06 PM
utter perfection, £0 budget my ar$elol

enjoy it now

General Baxter
12-06-09, 09:08 PM
get some bloody dirt on it lol

Rickyb
12-06-09, 10:12 PM
that is the mutts nutts +rep for you its awsome.
rick

MK999
12-06-09, 10:17 PM
Your carbon obsession is just funking awesome :D There's a golf in this months performance VW you'd probably like :) I share the same obsession and thought the interior was porn lol

Nick J
12-06-09, 10:54 PM
Cheers Martin,keith,Big Man,Mk999

Jeff, Its true fella! Im spending nothing now apart from routine maintenance... Use wise Im doing my best to rack up as many miles as possible! ps parts just need a clean up and they are on route to you. :)

Baxter... lol

Dan... Hmmm unsure on that one? I think Im happy with the contrast now, a small bit of shiny with carbon/colour coded bits seem to go well. :)

craig green
12-06-09, 11:01 PM
Still looking great. I'd have left the SBD sticker, though I hate free advertising.

Nick J
12-06-09, 11:07 PM
Still looking great. I'd have left the SBD sticker, though I hate free advertising.

Cheers Craig, I was just after simplicity like all the bast bays have etc. The sticker seemed to hit you in the face tbh hence why I made the decision to remove it. But Ive kept it so If I change my mind a guy at a local printers could soon replicate it for me etc.

Joe Richardson
13-06-09, 01:52 PM
looking very nice Nick:thumb:

Nick J
13-06-09, 09:00 PM
looking very nice Nick:thumb:

Cheers Joe :)

Small update guys, I dropped into work this morning to collect the plug cover I painted up after work yesterday evening. Back home I got it back onto the car, really glad I removed that sticker now! Just need to finish the new brace thats going on the car and re-fit the new scuttle cover that Don made for me and the bays finished, A quick few pics anyhow....

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip307.jpg?t=1244923208
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip306.jpg?t=1244923234


Nick.

Benn
13-06-09, 09:54 PM
I was gonna say the first belt cover was a late one..
Looks awesome dude! Love the carbon! Must get in and wax my inner arches too. Cant wait to see this car!

General Baxter
13-06-09, 10:02 PM
Baxter... lol

mines still got nats and pv mud on lol:thumb:

Nick J
13-06-09, 10:11 PM
I was gonna say the first belt cover was a late one..
Looks awesome dude! Love the carbon! Must get in and wax my inner arches too. Cant wait to see this car!

Cheers fella :)

Baxter.... lol I think Id have still been cleaning If Id have gone to pv!

Joe Richardson
13-06-09, 11:36 PM
Baxter.... lol I think Id have still been cleaning If Id have gone to pv!

same here matelol

LEWI007
13-06-09, 11:49 PM
Looks like one of those concours cars, keep it up bro :thumb:

gary_126
14-06-09, 12:46 PM
just read this whole thread!!! Cracking attention to detail, top work.

dan16v
18-06-09, 05:46 PM
Nick, after the graphics were applied to your vin plate did you laquer over the top?

Martin
18-06-09, 06:10 PM
dan - iirc he did so.. yes

dan16v
19-06-09, 08:32 AM
Thanks Martin!

Nick J
28-06-09, 12:23 PM
just read this whole thread!!! Cracking attention to detail, top work.

Thanks Gary, Im a big fan of your motor too :)

Dan, sorry for the late reply, Ive been on my hols in sunny cyprus :) As martin said I did indeed lacqeur over the text to stop it ever peeling off etc.

As for any more progress there is none! due to my hols etc. However Im hoping to get the last few bits on the car this week and get it tanked up ready for the journey to billing.

Nick.

dan16v
28-06-09, 12:59 PM
Thanks for that Nick, i have sent myne off to be laquered!

Matt
28-06-09, 01:02 PM
Thanks Gary, Im a big fan of your motor too :)

Dan, sorry for the late reply, Ive been on my hols in sunny cyprus :) As martin said I did indeed lacqeur over the text to stop it ever peeling off etc.

As for any more progress there is none! due to my hols etc. However Im hoping to get the last few bits on the car this week and get it tanked up ready for the journey to billing.

Nick.

I wish my only worry was getting the car a full tank of petrol before Billing lol

Looking forward to seeing your Nova there (fingers crossed). Whos stand are you going to be on btw?

Nick J
28-06-09, 04:13 PM
I wish my only worry was getting the car a full tank of petrol before Billing lol

Looking forward to seeing your Nova there (fingers crossed). Whos stand are you going to be on btw?

Im sure you'll get sorted fella. Im on with jov this year.

Nick.

Nick J
04-07-09, 03:50 PM
Hey Guys n gals,

Little update time then. I decided a little while ago that Ive gone far enough with this car and have other ideas ( poss nova) so after 5 years of chopping and changing Im going to put it up for sale shortly. Carbon bonnet,spare gaz coilovers and numerous other bits you've probably seen my threads have been sold to kick off my next car/project fund and as said the car will follow shortly. I have been on with a couple of small bits though....

Take one sheet of carbon, big hole saw and get the following....

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaparts.jpg?t=1246717185


Then a quick coat of sealer/lacqeur and a little bit of refix tape and its mounted up.....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaparts005-1.jpg?t=1246717268
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaparts006-1.jpg?t=1246717291


Looks pretty good I think! Just twice as expensive as I thought due to having to buy a hole saw as no-one I knew had one big enough!

Ive also been back on with the front brace. Due to the endplates being rather thick we had to countersink around the holes to gain more thread to wind the washer/nut onto. We copied the sparco end plates that are done ina similar fashion by countersinking around 2.5mm and ended up with this.......

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaparts002-1.jpg?t=1246717556
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaparts004-1.jpg?t=1246718496


The holes themselves had already been filed a little to suit as well which Ive heard most need to be on these braces. Then I repolished it and went to fit thinking I had it sussed. Only to find not! Its goes into position fine however Im still not happy with the amount of thread showing when the washers/nuts on. No pics but the top mount thread isnt even quite flush with the top of the nut if you see what I mean. I dont think anymore should be removed from the brace so the simplest way to solve the problem would be to buy after market top mounts. I didnt fancy spending anymore cash so the brace has found a new home too! lol But after a bit of thought I realised I liked the bay braceless so although I still have my sparco brace Im not planning on using it. The bay seems to look so more simplistic and thats the look Im after. The carb/inlet area clenliness all gets to be shown off this way instead of being hidden by a brace.

I also noticed my top mount nuts and washers were looking a little grubby so off to the stainless place I went and got some shiny new ones! I know you'll appreciate these Benn!


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaparts011.jpg?t=1246720429

On another note Id almost ran out of all wax/polish so I thought Id ask around to see what people were using. Ive used allsorts workwise/projectwise in the past but there seems to be some much more high detailing gear out there now and I want the car to look as good as poss for this years shows. So after all sorts of advice I opted for the following (cheers Dec!) Its a make Ive used well in the past so I trust it....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaparts009-1.jpg?t=1246718575

So you can guess what I'll be doing on the run up to billing next week! Ive also rubbed down the plug cover for a repaint as I wasnt quite happy with that. pics to follow later. Im glad just about all Ive planned is finished/decided upon. so now I can just get the car polished up and enjoy billing. Hope to see/meet some of you there. :)

Nick.

021-bennettt
04-07-09, 04:14 PM
Your engine bay and entire ca is the cleanest i have ever seen and im not sucking up because i want you to send me stuff lol
Congrats on having the mintest and cleanest Nova ever!:)

vaughanmc
04-07-09, 04:16 PM
Good work Nick, I look forward to seeing this at Billing :)

Benn
04-07-09, 06:41 PM
I do, i do. Stainless rules. I've replaced every single nut and bolt i can with stainless.

peester
04-07-09, 06:56 PM
its been one of the best for a while , great ideas nick. Well executed.

Nick J
04-07-09, 07:07 PM
its been one of the best for a while , great ideas nick. Well executed.

Thanks fella, Its nice to hear a good reaction to some of the things I attempt. Trying to be a little different whilst remaining standardish is hard when its all been done before with novas!

Bennett... cheers.

Benn... Ive done just about them all now too!

Vaughan... cheers, make yourself known at billing.

Nick.

Benn
04-07-09, 11:01 PM
Its a nice feeling isnt it. I spend loads on ebay buying it.

vaughanmc
05-07-09, 11:01 AM
Will do Nick :)

Nick J
05-07-09, 05:01 PM
Its a nice feeling isnt it. I spend loads on ebay buying it.

Seeing it fitted is great, the spending on the other hand isnt as good, Its very surprising how much you can spend on shiny nuts and bolts!

Vaughan.... catch you then.

Mike
05-07-09, 06:07 PM
Wooo some one else with a carbon fuel pump acess cover :thumb: look nice dont they in a stripped boot :D

Nick J
05-07-09, 06:54 PM
Wooo some one else with a carbon fuel pump acess cover :thumb: look nice dont they in a stripped boot :D

Typical... there was me thinking It was unique!! I didnt know you had one Mike. Just goes to show I was correct in what I said above, It really all has been done with novas before! lol

Nick J
09-07-09, 02:43 PM
Hey all,

Update time however its on small, Ive spent most of my evening this week polishing,sealing,waxing everything I could get my hands to. The paintwork looks stunning and feels super smoooth! Ive just put the battery on to charge to make sure its got plenty of life in it too. Carbon scuttle panel has made its way out of the loft and will go on this evening when I load the car up. Also since fitting the stubby mirrors I couldnt decide whether or not to cut holes in my carbon mirror blanks as I never knew if I'd decide to go back to manta items etc. But Im very happy with the stubby's so I used a spare set to get the correct hole location and marked them up...

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip311.jpg?t=1247146079
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip310.jpg?t=1247146136


Then at work using a cone drill the hole was made and slightly elongated to get the standard hole shape only smaller as Id checked and could still get full adjustment with a smaller hole. A quick file followed by a bit of wet and dry and there mounted up........

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip313.jpg?t=1247146335

However Im afraid Thats it now, Ive called time on this project. I was going to put it up for sale before billing but I havent had the time to get some pics and do an advert. But a photographer mate has said he will get some great pics at billing hopefully and I'll use them on my return. Price wise Ive had a chat with quite a few people and decided on a price I think is realistic. Considering its spec and condition Im hoping I'll tempt someone! For anyone interested Im looking at £5250. The car wont have for sales signs in at billing but if you'd like to speak to me about it feel free to come over and have a chat. Im on with Jov this year. As said above an advert will go up in a week or so. I'll look forward to seeing you and yours cars at billing whatever the weather!

Nick.

scott.parker
09-07-09, 03:24 PM
Don't sell it... at least take it for a track day first mate.

Scott

Benn
09-07-09, 05:14 PM
Gotta come see the car, real shame your selling it tho.

Dec16v
09-07-09, 06:08 PM
Bargin price for one of my top 5 Nova's.... shame you're selling, these cars rarely find themselves in the hands of someone as enthusiastic and fussy as the person who orginally built them!!

See you at Billing

ben doodar
09-07-09, 08:09 PM
awesome car mate, bet you will cry when someone drives it away.
all good things have to come to an end i suppose!

any reason for sale or do you just feel its time to move on?

shame to see it go, allthough we all know the guy who buys it will never have the kudos you have for building it awesome car pal.

good luck with the sale.












bet you will have another one.......

Nick J
09-07-09, 10:25 PM
Don't sell it... at least take it for a track day first mate.

Scott

Ive had my fun with it on the roads over the last five years or so tbh, never been that into trackdays although who knows what the next car may bring? ;)

Benn... Im sure you'll see it this weekend, All good things come to an end.

Dec... cheers fella I appreciate that, I'll just hope whoever buys it does look after it. It'd be such a waste of a cracking car if not.

Ben doodar... I can definatly say it wont be my last nova, Ive had many over the past 11 years this being the best but I may be able to change that ;) But tbh after five years I feel Ive gone far enough with this one and would like to put some different ideas into practice. We'll just have to see what happens.

Nick.

trackdaynova
09-07-09, 10:52 PM
Not sure why people tell you not to sell it :confused: lol

Looking forward to also taking some pics of it at Billing mate, I'll be sure to come and say hello :) :thumb:

scott.parker
10-07-09, 08:01 AM
Well fair enough then, if your going to build a track nova after selling I'll say why not sell then! lol

stupot89
10-07-09, 08:26 PM
nick if you are sellin it then sell it to charlie you no he will look after it and he has some pennies now as i heard he has sold the corsa now

ben doodar
10-07-09, 09:39 PM
cool will look forward to seeing ur next 1. lol as if youve had novas for the last 11 years!! once youve had one the bug certainly bights dosnt it mate, i know a lad whos had 19! lol.

i really do love it mate big respect for building such an awesome car.

ben doodar
10-07-09, 09:41 PM
also whilst im at it mate, id love to see some pictures from when you first had it.

SRimon
10-07-09, 09:49 PM
I was hoping this was gonna come up forsale in about 6 months! I'd have been massively interestd then!

Martin
12-07-09, 10:06 PM
well done to nick for winning Best custom car at VBOA Billing today..

trackdaynova
12-07-09, 10:12 PM
absolutely phenominal car in the flesh Nick, certainly a worthy show-winner.

must have spent over an hour snapping away on yours, Keiths and Vaughans :thumb:

andybishop
12-07-09, 10:17 PM
Congratulation to Nick, Car looked stunning, as I said to you this weekend, you can't sell!! just do your plans to this one!! Hope you have a strengthened fireplace or shelf for all the trophies from this weekend!! :thumb:

trackdaynova
12-07-09, 10:24 PM
oh yeah, and Andys.... worked on Andys too... didn't forget you mate lol

andybishop
12-07-09, 10:25 PM
Nice one fella!! ;)

Count Vaux Alot
12-07-09, 11:02 PM
AS said a very nice well sorted car that is well worthy of the trophy. Well done Nick its an asset to yourself

Adam
12-07-09, 11:30 PM
As everyone else has said, congrats Nick. Car really does look more stunning in the flesh than in pics.

vaughanmc
12-07-09, 11:40 PM
This Nova is feckin' stunning in person Nick! It's a true credit to you

Makes a lovely lumpy sound on idle! F*ckin' love it :)

Benn
13-07-09, 09:51 AM
Hats off to you dude, finely saw this in the flesh and its a stunning car!
Well deserved winner of the chairmans cup (gutted you beat me..lol)

Fantastic car tho, work is top notch on it.

Really glad i got to meet you too.

Nick J
13-07-09, 09:56 AM
absolutely phenominal car in the flesh Nick, certainly a worthy show-winner.

must have spent over an hour snapping away on yours, Keiths and Vaughans :thumb:


Hi Olly and thanks, Im seemed to meet most members apart from yourself! another time possibly. I'll look forward to seeing the snaps from a pro as my photo's never seem to show the car to its best.

Martin, Big thanks to you and matt for sticking around with me during the time the car was in the arena, Much appreciated. Me and Rob had a great weekend with you guys. :)

Andy, I know what your saying fella I'll just see how things go etc. Your car on the other hand was a stunning as ever, Thanks for a top weekend mate.

Count, Thanks and nice to meet you fella. I had a look over your build... very impressive! ;)

Adam, cheers fella!

Vaughan, Cheers... Yeh its always a bit lumpy when its cold, I dont think the big cams help it! lol

The Simps
13-07-09, 10:58 AM
Was good to meet you briefly at the weekend Nick and have a chat. As everyone else has said the car does look just as stunning in the flesh - if not more impressive!

Congrats on the trophy and if anything it will certainly help selll the car! lol After chatting to you I understand why you want to.

Martin
13-07-09, 11:28 AM
no problem's nick, i hated(probs just as much as you did) seeing people putting there grubby hands on it, and leaning over with bags and stuff.. and we couldnt just leave it there could we..

altho you do need to work on you're speech's haha, well done on the other trohpys with JOV too :D

Nick J
13-07-09, 07:57 PM
Hey guys,

It was great to finally put some usernames to faces and have a chat with you this weekend, Apologies to those I missed! As some of you who attended billing will know my car got rather a good reception this year. I feel it may be down to some of the changes Ive made since last year as many people gave me great feedback on what Id done. Jov entered me for the chairmans cup and I was lucky enough to win the VBOA Victor cup for best modified car. My apologies to Benn for pipping him to this one as his car too looked stunning...(Im thinking it may have been Keith Robinson polishing up my tailpipe that gave me the edge!) lol I also picked up two other awards from jov which were the Members cup and Best engine detail!! To say I was over the moon was an understatement! As well as the guys on jov Id like to thank all of the members on here for Help,Encouragment,advice and parts. I feel without this the car may never have come on as far as it has. Here's some trophy shots and various pics Ive found from this weekend, Enjoy................


http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/bennh/Billing%2009/Nick1rs.jpg
http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g191/vaughanmc/Billing%202009/Billing09100.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/bennh/Billing%2009/nickandandyrs.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/bennh/Billing%2009/nick3rs.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v321/bennh/Billing%2009/nick5rs.jpg
http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p69/JonnyJ001/Billing/09/Picture16.png (http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p69/JonnyJ001/Billing/09/Picture16.png)
http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p69/JonnyJ001/Billing/09/Picture12.png (http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p69/JonnyJ001/Billing/09/Picture12.png)
http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p69/JonnyJ001/Billing/09/Picture14.png (http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p69/JonnyJ001/Billing/09/Picture14.png)
http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p69/JonnyJ001/Billing/09/Picture15.png (http://i125.photobucket.com/albums/p69/JonnyJ001/Billing/09/Picture15.png)
http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g191/vaughanmc/Billing%202009/Billing0959.jpg
http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g191/vaughanmc/Billing%202009/Billing0969.jpg
http://i56.photobucket.com/albums/g191/vaughanmc/Billing%202009/Billing0972.jpg


And the trophy's.......


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip314.jpg?t=1247510794
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip316.jpg?t=1247510874

Nick J
13-07-09, 08:01 PM
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip319.jpg?t=1247511486


And a group shot.....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip321.jpg?t=1247511517


This takes the novas honours to four in total!


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip322.jpg?t=1247511695

Nick.

Joe Richardson
13-07-09, 08:01 PM
**** me :eek:

John
13-07-09, 08:17 PM
Nick! Serious congratulations on winning the best modded trophy! Came to catch you in the arena but you looked a bit snowed under! They were three deep around it at times! I can't beleive how much you under-estimate your car, maybe you'll beleive us now you have the silverwear eh lol. Good to chat to you as always Nick, you sir are a leg! (and you currently have one of may fave all-time novas!!)

garethcolley
13-07-09, 08:21 PM
Well done Nick, without question the ultimate nova imo.

Jeff16v
13-07-09, 08:22 PM
glad i've seen it in the flesh. Pics never do it justice. awesome car:thumb:

John
13-07-09, 08:22 PM
Is that Phil Lofthouse i spy?

Benn
13-07-09, 08:22 PM
Nicely done dude, fantastic car.

hybridturbo
13-07-09, 08:23 PM
Think its all been said, well done Nick :d Top car

Nick J
13-07-09, 08:28 PM
Is that Phil Lofthouse i spy?

Thanks John, good to speak to you as always! You have a sharp eye it is indeed Phil lofthouse! He came over for a chat as he was there on the sunday. Ive Known him for quite some years now with him being local and well into his novas etc.

cheers all for above comments!

Benn
13-07-09, 08:31 PM
Nick, next time your on msn i'll send you the high-res pics,

trackdaynova
13-07-09, 09:14 PM
Hi Olly and thanks, Im seemed to meet most members apart from yourself! another time possiblyI overheard you introducing yourself to other members, but to be honest, I avoided it, as I completely fkkked you around with the Quaife box, and felt like a right dick, so I avoided introducing myself, Andy B will vouch for this, as I asked who you were so I knew to avoid.

Still feel harsh now, thinking about it, sorry again dude :(

Nick J
13-07-09, 09:23 PM
I overheard you introducing yourself to other members, but to be honest, I avoided it, as I completely fkkked you around with the Quaife box, and felt like a right dick, so I avoided introducing myself, Andy B will vouch for this, as I asked who you were so I knew to avoid.

Still feel harsh now, thinking about it, sorry again dude :(

Olly, I felt a little hard done by at the time however you had your reasons and as far as I was concerned it was forgotten a long time ago, I certainly held no grudge fella! Please feel free to come over next time. On another note Im looking forward to seeing your pics from the weekend ;)

Benn, That would be great fella! :)

Nick.

Benn
13-07-09, 09:24 PM
Get on msn then...lol

Adam
13-07-09, 09:40 PM
Really is a stunning motor, and a bargain if you do sell it.....

Looks even more stunning in some of those pics that i assume Mr Hewitt took.

trackdaynova
13-07-09, 09:42 PM
ah ah ah, none of mine there Adam, no one has seen mine yet :eek:

Adam
13-07-09, 09:50 PM
Ohhhh, must be Benns then. Nice skill'z :cool:

Big_Chap
13-07-09, 09:58 PM
Congrats on the trophy haul, jov trophies are cool and well thought out! Car gets better each year!

Nick J
13-07-09, 10:04 PM
Congrats on the trophy haul, jov trophies are cool and well thought out! Car gets better each year!

Cheers fella, nice talking to you by the way! :)

Big_Chap
13-07-09, 10:14 PM
You too fella! See you next year in the new project hopefully!

The Simps
13-07-09, 11:02 PM
Seeing these pics gives me the horn again!

krobinson
13-07-09, 11:07 PM
Congrats on the trophy haul, jov trophies are cool and well thought out! Car gets better each year!

JOV trophies are lethal weapons! I'm afraid of cutting my hand on mine :d

Well done Nick, your car was stunning as always, I hope you keep it and go ahead with the new plan ;)

Nick J
13-07-09, 11:21 PM
JOV trophies are lethal weapons! I'm afraid of cutting my hand on mine :d

Well done Nick, your car was stunning as always, I hope you keep it and go ahead with the new plan ;)

lol, They certainly are fella. We'll see what happens and go from there. Your car is awesome and I felt you should have been the one to represent us really. It was great to see mine,yours and andy's car together! your build will be inspirational to me if I am to start another project. :)

andybishop
13-07-09, 11:26 PM
Look after the engine detail trophy mate, I'm sorry i didn't clean it up a bit more for you!! It was time it went to a more worthy car and has made space for my camper van models on my shelf! :thumb:

Matt
13-07-09, 11:35 PM
Well done with the trophy fella, thoroughly deserved!

The car looked truely outstanding and is a real credit to you. I spent ages looking round it but didn't get chance to say hello as you seemed to be surrounded by a small fan club most the time lol Did laugh when you ran past me and shouted "I hope your not in the line up, you'll have 'es beat!" lol

Good times, roll on next year!

Rick Draper
14-07-09, 03:54 AM
It was great to see mine,yours and andy's car together! your build will be inspirational to me if I am to start another project. :)

Without doubt the 3 most stunning novas on the scene at the minute. TBH they make almost every other nova look shonky as **** (with the exception of Dec's). Classic turbo and XE conversions done to such a high standard it will be far to hard to better:thumb: :thumb: Amazing lads.

vaughanmc
14-07-09, 09:44 AM
I like the pics I took of mine and your Nova's, Nick

Definately pics I'll keep forever - When we pulled up on Saturday morning I heard someone say 'Here's Nicks twin' lol

Nice to meet you as well fella! Top guy :thumb:

corsa444
14-07-09, 05:26 PM
Nice work man!

Nick J
14-07-09, 06:09 PM
Look after the engine detail trophy mate, I'm sorry i didn't clean it up a bit more for you!! It was time it went to a more worthy car and has made space for my camper van models on my shelf! :thumb:

I certainly will Andy! Ive sorted it with some SG and gave it a quick buff lol

Matt.. cheers fella, I actually thought :eek: when I saw you and Benn in for the chairmans cup! Some stiff competition, I was lucky to take it. ;) Im sorry I missed you as I did want to chat to you but maybe next time etc.

Rick... cheers for that, much appreciated.

Vaughan... Nice to meet you too mate, Everytime Me,Andy or Keith looked up you had the t-cut out! If there was a trophy for the most bufty you would have won it! lol

Corsa444...... cheers :)

vaughanmc
14-07-09, 06:21 PM
T-Cut lol ? I was gently treating the paint to some Megs Tech Wax and lots of it :thumb:

Nick J
14-07-09, 06:34 PM
I was looking around earlier and came across Mr hewitts awesome vboa pic collection! So here's a little pic whore from a Pro's album! Many thanks to Olly for these stunning reflection shots that show the car off sooo well! I also found a few nice snaps from Matt so thanks to you also :)

Enjoy.......




http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0032.jpg?t=1247592131
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0031.jpg?t=1247592158
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0030.jpg?t=1247592176
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0029.jpg?t=1247592198
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0028.jpg?t=1247592217
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0027.jpg?t=1247592246
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0026.jpg?t=1247592348
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0034.jpg?t=1247592376
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0036.jpg?t=1247592404
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/0038.jpg?t=1247592426
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/DSC00881.jpg?t=1247592456
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/DSC00903.jpg?t=1247592505
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/Nick1rs.jpg?t=1247592584

Nick. :)

Benn
14-07-09, 06:36 PM
T-Cut lol ? I was gently treating the paint to some Megs Tech Wax and lots of it :thumb:

Made me pround when i walkled up taking pics and you where either laying on stage 2 oe 3..

vaughanmc
14-07-09, 06:36 PM
Would have been the Stage 3 at the point lol Carnuba Wax

I actually finished the bottle of it lol lol

Benn
14-07-09, 06:37 PM
Thought it was, could smell it...lol

vaughanmc
14-07-09, 06:37 PM
lol Spot on - Didn't really work compared to the shine off Nick's but it'll do me

Nick J
14-07-09, 06:37 PM
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/nick5rs.jpg?t=1247592651
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/DSC00889.jpg?t=1247593026

Benn
14-07-09, 06:38 PM
Think thats my foot in the pic above...lol

Nick J
14-07-09, 06:40 PM
Think thats my foot in the pic above...lol

lol lol

Vaughan.... I stand corrected thought I saw T-cut! :)

vaughanmc
14-07-09, 06:41 PM
lol lol

Vaughan.... I stand corrected thought I saw T-cut! :)

Not used T-Cut since I got the car to try and bring the paint back! Was a feckin' awsome weekend though

Send on next year

Nick J
15-07-09, 05:55 PM
Not used T-Cut since I got the car to try and bring the paint back! Was a feckin' awsome weekend though

Send on next year

Too right, I cant wait for it already! :)

ben doodar
19-07-09, 05:07 PM
awesome car nick wish i made the effort to come to billing this year.
congrats on the trophys, a true credit to you.
why are you thinking uf selling it, if you plan on having another, what are your plans for the next one then, if you dont want to do it to this 1? lol lol

Nick J
19-07-09, 05:45 PM
awesome car nick wish i made the effort to come to billing this year.
congrats on the trophys, a true credit to you.
why are you thinking uf selling it, if you plan on having another, what are your plans for the next one then, if you dont want to do it to this 1? lol lol

Hi Ben, cheers! To be honest I have new ideas (mk1 let) that Id like to try out if mine sells that is. If it doesnt then I'll just enjoy it. :)

Nick.

Nick J
08-08-09, 03:51 PM
Sad day guys Im afraid. The novas just been driven away with its new owner an hour ago! So for the first time in years Im novaless! Not for long though watch this space! ;)

Plug
08-08-09, 04:39 PM
anyone off here take it??

Nick J
08-08-09, 04:47 PM
anyone off here take it??

No fella I dont think the new owners are on here tbh. For those who havent read in my for sale thread it was actually bought by a female! How cool is that! She did say she'll try to keep it clean. :)

John
08-08-09, 04:52 PM
Good stuff Nick!
Bring on the mk1 let!

Matt
08-08-09, 04:54 PM
Pics of the bird? lol

Well done with the sale! Look forward to seeing the next project :thumb:

Joe Richardson
08-08-09, 05:27 PM
Pics of the bird? lol

ftwlol

krobinson
08-08-09, 06:31 PM
I think I may know what your buying......

Nick J
08-08-09, 06:33 PM
I think I may know what your buying......

I wondered how long it may be before you twigged!! lol....... Keep shhhh for now!

Benn
08-08-09, 06:40 PM
Ah shame but cool, pics of the new one...

Adam
08-08-09, 07:29 PM
Was she tidy? :p lol


Fingers crossed she keeps it in the condition you have :)
Look forward to seeing whats next :)

Dec16v
08-08-09, 07:50 PM
Mate, can't believe you've sold yours too...... 2 top Nova's sold on in the same week!!!!

Can't wait to hear what your new project's gonna be!!

Dec

Rich
08-08-09, 08:05 PM
it was actually bought by a female!

Oh god write off! lol I bet you feel gutted, know i did when i sold my old one and it was no where near the condition of yours :(

Rob
08-08-09, 08:21 PM
sad week in the world of novas as 2 top cars have been sold, bet your gutted mate but on the other hand you get to put your skills into another project which will no doubt be flawless good luck mate and look forward to the pics of the new toy :thumb:

Big_Chap
08-08-09, 08:31 PM
Mate, can't believe you've sold yours too...... 2 top Nova's sold on in the same week!!!!

Can't wait to hear what your new project's gonna be!!

Dec

Who else has sold up?

Graeme
08-08-09, 08:32 PM
Dec himself

SRimon
08-08-09, 09:25 PM
Good luck with the new project Nick.

The Simps
08-08-09, 09:43 PM
Shame to see it go, know how you feel right now. New project will be awesome tho I'm sure. Looking forward to seeing what you can do with it.

Nick J
09-08-09, 10:40 AM
[quote=Dec16v]Mate, can't believe you've sold yours too...... 2 top Nova's sold on in the same week!!!!

Dec......You havent sold up have you mate?!

Adam... Yes she did look well in it and thats all Im saying! lol

Simps.... cheers!

Simon... Thanks!

Rich.... gutted at the moment but I'll be fine once the hole in my garage is filled, possibly wont be long either ;)

Benn, cheers!

Nick J
14-09-09, 10:43 PM
Hi all, long time no update! Most of you will already know the red nova in this thread was sold a few months back. Some will also know what the funds from that car paid for. My preferance has always been the mk1 nova and to bag one in such a rare colour plus the fact it has the engine that has always eluded me in a nova was a bonus! Im talking of course about my latest project below.......


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/2exwzzn.jpg
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/DSC00913.jpg


Previously bought as an almost standard sr and meticulously converted by Shaun larnder it was just what I'd have liked my finished build to look like without the huge cost of starting a build from a basic shell. My intentions then.......... To basically perfect the car in anyway I see fit and thoroughly enjoy the use of it within the better months of the year. My ideas are very different this time being that im going for function over form in some ways anyhow. I wanted something that rides well, goes like hell and still looks well even though it will be basic and not have any trick/custom looky parts like my previous nova project. But it will still have to be a clean well presented car overall. The above car fits the bill well and although its not entirely perfect like the last one given a bit of time and effort I feel I can get it to a cracking standard. Over the past few weeks Ive been acumulating parts and painting up a few bits and bats just to tidy parts I thought needed it. In the short while Ive owned it a leaky sump seams to be all I can so far fault it on ( Holding my breath and currently touching wood!) An 8v sump gasket/baffle and shorter bolt kit Ive just purchased from autovaux Im hoping will sort this.
So onto what Ive been up to so far... Nothing groundbreaking yet just a few little touches. The fuel cap on the car for one I didnt like the look of nor did I feel represented the look I want to achieve.......


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip010.jpg


So after a quick look on ebay I found a £2 bargain standard fuel cap/key. Once it arrived I noticed it had been painted up matt black and to not a very good standard! :( A quick dip in thinners the next day followed by being painted in a complimenting grey and satin finish lacqeur I had the above cap replaced with this.......

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip002.jpg

Much better Im sure you'll agree!

Another part that caught my eye that I dint like was the engine plug cover. It had been powdercoated in a course metallic black and with corroded lettering didnt look very good at all! Plus the fact all the other items in the bay are powdercoated in a satin finish black I just wasnt happy with it. Here's how it looked before.....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip001.jpg


So this also got treated to a rub down and was painted in black with a matt/satin finish to compliment the other black parts in the engine bay. Lettering was then polished up for a cleaner look.....

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip015.jpg


And fitted...........

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip007.jpg


Another vast improvement that didnt take much effort! One other little thing that was rather annoying was the bonnet stay platform had broke it clips and the bonnet stay came off everytime I grabbed it! A new one purchased from Lee H (cheers) arrived and after a quick coat of satin black to tidy it up was fitted. Another job off the list!


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip006.jpg


Then looking through my nova spares I came across the following Id painted up to suit the red nova........


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novawip327-1.jpg


This got me thinking! So following a quick rub down and a few coats of satin/matt finish lacqeur we have the following awaiting fitting........


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip017.jpg

Again this will compliment perfectly the other items in the bay I feel and should look great fitted.

Nick J
14-09-09, 10:59 PM
Lastly I was getting the urge to paint something mustard yellow! So I mixed up a little a decided to treat a couple of small parts! The car had the following for a gearknob.....

http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/03745XSB180.jpg?t=1252964996


I wasnt really a fan of it so I filled the top recesses and painted it in mustard yellow. Only it did look a little too much so I painted the bottom half dark grey to tone it down a little. One custom gear knob .....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip013.jpg?t=1252965171


And fitted.........


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip005.jpg?t=1252965207


So there I was getting a little carried away with the mustard yellow, and decided another item was going to get the same treatment!


One horn push fitted.............


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip003.jpg?t=1252965329


Im also currently acquiring/looking for all the stick on type items on the exterior of the car such as mouldings,vinyls etc. Once I have them all no doubt the car will have a full repaint in the original colour scheme with all the original brand new trims fitted so its a good as it can be. Ive managed to find most of the new mouldings already.........


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip018.jpg?t=1252965511

stupot89
14-09-09, 11:00 PM
lookin good nick carnt wait to see it in person

Nick J
14-09-09, 11:04 PM
Ive also had these recently returned to me.....


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip020.jpg?t=1252965680


Im going to paint them up grey where they are red for the standard look and then decide whether I'll use them or not. Unsure so far whether I want a totally standard look exterior wise (apart from wheels) for this project as yet. Time will tell I guess! Thats it for now. Hopefully some more updates soon.

Nick. :)

Rich
14-09-09, 11:17 PM
Standard look imo, or colour code the standard mirrors yellow?

Never liked the stubby mirrors so im biased

The Simps
14-09-09, 11:19 PM
Liking your work so far! Not keen on the knob & horn but maybe its something you need to see standing back a bit. I trust your tastes :D

vaughanmc
14-09-09, 11:22 PM
Get the mirrors on it mate, will look awsome with them fitted :)

Benn
14-09-09, 11:32 PM
Love the bits that have been done! Nice to see you doing the little bits.. Love the plug cover and filler cap.

Knob looks cool too.

sparkie1401
14-09-09, 11:36 PM
stop talking about his knob Benn

Benn
14-09-09, 11:47 PM
Making you wanna touch it?

sparkie1401
14-09-09, 11:48 PM
yes but no but yeah but ssshhhhhhhhhhhhhhh!!!!!!!!lol

Joe Richardson
15-09-09, 12:00 AM
looking good Nick:thumb:

some good work done already:)

Joe

Spudly
15-09-09, 12:07 AM
Looking good, getting your own personal touches on it without doing too much, this is going to be even more of a pearler than it already is, good work:thumb:

garethcolley
15-09-09, 02:15 PM
Nice, what year is the car Nick? I didnt think it would be long until you started painting!

Nick J
15-09-09, 07:04 PM
Liking your work so far! Not keen on the knob & horn but maybe its something you need to see standing back a bit. I trust your tastes :D

The knob and horn as said were just a little bit of tinkering gone too far really!

Benn, cheers fella!

Gareth, Its an original 88 sr.

Rich, I'll be keeping the mirrors grey even if I add the stubby ones as I want to keep the standard sr colours.

Vaughan, Unsure yet as said I'll decide upon them being fitted!

Spud,Joe... cheers guys!

Nick.

vaughanmc
15-09-09, 07:08 PM
Nice one fella, make sure it's as clean as your old red one :thumb:

Definately be a 2010 show stopper!

krobinson
15-09-09, 09:10 PM
Good times Nick, looking good!!

GDN16v
15-09-09, 09:37 PM
And fitted.........


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip005.jpg?t=1252965207


Excellent taste! I used to have the same one in my Jamican yellow SR nova!lol:thumb::p

Courtnova16v
16-09-09, 02:46 PM
Congratulations on everything you achieved with the red nova and I'm looking forward to see how this one turns out. If its anything like the last one I'm sure it will be excellent. Keep up the good work.

shaun larnder
16-09-09, 11:20 PM
Coming along nice Nick....

SRimon
16-09-09, 11:28 PM
Yep, your still my hero too! Nice work on the side strips buddy!

Great work so far, improving on a bloody nice car wasn't gonna be easy!

Paul16v
16-09-09, 11:31 PM
awesome car, and your attention to detail is 2nd to none

looking forward to seeing the finnished result

gunny
17-09-09, 12:43 AM
Will be watching this the car looks awesome as is, ive always wanted to build the same but jamaican yellow, still havent came across a good enough shell though and would have to be an original SR.

Definitely a motor to look out for and i expect nothing less than perfection from you sir lol :thumb:

The little yellow touches inside look good imo, brings a bit of colour to the interior.

Graeme
17-09-09, 10:42 AM
Looking good Nick

Jay
17-09-09, 10:43 AM
Love it.

cassanova1
17-09-09, 12:32 PM
Very clean!!!

Nick J
17-09-09, 05:18 PM
Cheers for all the comments guys! They are always appreciated. ;)

Nick.

Dec16v
17-09-09, 05:48 PM
Loving your plans Nick.... :)

Nick
17-09-09, 05:48 PM
Looking awesome !

Nick J
18-09-09, 07:01 PM
Dec,Nick... cheers guys! :)

A little update then....... Ive been trying to be prepared for when the time comes to paint the car, I will be keeping the grey bottom half/bumpers and as the vinyls for these are pretty rare plus the fact they would be a pain to fit my best option I think would be to paint them on. So I have been comparing different shades of grey and shortlisted 3 which I think could work well so I painted up 3 test cards......


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip.jpg?t=1253294960


I wanted as close a match as I can get to be blue/grey vauxhall colour which the pillar vinlyls,roof gutters and so on are were all supplied in originally. The shades above seemed to match up pretty well to the different areas on the car however The vinyls,window trims,spoiler and bumpers are all slightly different in shades to each other anyhow. But Id like to paint them all in one or two shades so they all match up well/compliment each other perfectly. You can see below that one test card looks great to the pillar vinyls whilst another looks better to the spoiler but then none really seem to match the bumper!...........


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip028.jpg?t=1253295464
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip025.jpg?t=1253295522
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip024.jpg?t=1253295558
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip023.jpg?t=1253297584


I thought the darkest of the three colours although it doesnt match the bumpers quite as well as it does the pillar vinyls and spoiler would be the best option. The bumpers will get painted in the same colour later on anyhow. It was actually the same shade I painted the fuel cap last week too! That decided I thought Id get busy and prepare these........


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip032.jpg?t=1253295781


I got them all rubbed and masked off the majority for the following day at work where they were placed on a stand and the edges were fine lined out for a perfect edge........


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip034.jpg?t=1253295892


Shortly after that picture was taken we had these.......


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip036.jpg?t=1253295974


I could have painted them body colour but I wanted to stay with the sr's original colour scheme of grey colour wing mirror covers etc. Next pic shows them demasked and ready for fitment!......


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip038.jpg?t=1253296066
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip039.jpg?t=1253296127


Once I got home I thought Id try one on to see how it looked. Im not going to fit them permanantly just yet as I want to wait until the cars all finished. But here's how it looked........


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip040.jpg?t=1253296341
http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip041.jpg?t=1253296406


Im pleased with how the mirror looks and with the colour. I'll be using the same shade on the door handles/lock surrounds shortly as well. On another note Id like to keep this car for some years to come so when I got offered the following at a good price I thought they would be a good investment.......


http://i84.photobucket.com/albums/k27/nj_photo/novaturbowip030.jpg?t=1253296581


Thats it for now, I have some more parts on the way and will be cracking on with more soon so keep your eyes peeled! :)

Nick.

gunny
18-09-09, 07:04 PM
looking good mate

Plug
18-09-09, 07:08 PM
two new doors :eek:
whats wrong with the drivers? for sale :)

looking good :thumb:

Benn
18-09-09, 07:17 PM
Good work on the grey shades!

I'd say yellow mirrors tho...

Joe Richardson
18-09-09, 10:20 PM
very very nice Nick:thumb:

I will have to come round and see it one day,before my sr comes off the road for winter:)

Pistol Pete
18-09-09, 10:53 PM
Your attention to detail, i loved on the red Nova. This one looks set to be just as good. Top work.

Edd
19-09-09, 01:22 AM
Top work there Nick, should look great when finished.

New doors aswell, where did you find them? I had to go to Germany for mine.

Nick J
19-09-09, 09:30 AM
Top work there Nick, should look great when finished.

New doors aswell, where did you find them? I had to go to Germany for mine.

Hopefully it will fella, doors came from a member on here who's had them in storage for some time, I was just lucky to catch him at the right time to buy them.

Joe... Your welcome round whenever fella.

Pete.... Cheers!

Jimbo... The doors on the car are nigh on perfect condition but its a nova! so they arent going to stay that way forever hence the spare new ones. ;)

Adam
19-09-09, 10:57 AM
Nice work.
What colour is it that youve decided on for the bumpers etc? (code/name?) If you dont mind saying :) Or is it a shade that youve made up yourself?

dj_wudgey
19-09-09, 11:31 AM
likeing the plans mate it does need to stay standard!! awesome car though mate!! ive loved it for years!!

scott.parker
19-09-09, 03:03 PM
Nice work.
What colour is it that youve decided on for the bumpers etc? (code/name?) If you dont mind saying :) Or is it a shade that youve made up yourself?

I might also want to know the code's for them paint shades etc, as i might want to paint the Grey parts on the yellow 1.2L

Nick J
19-09-09, 03:19 PM
Nice work.
What colour is it that youve decided on for the bumpers etc? (code/name?) If you dont mind saying :) Or is it a shade that youve made up yourself?

Cheers Adam/scott... All three are off the shelf colours. Should either of you want to paint the bumpers up just drop me a pm and I'll give you both the information needed. ;)

Nick.

lee-loon
19-09-09, 03:56 PM
I think the grey looks too metalic.or is it the camera bringing it out?

The grey on the mirror caps looks too glossy,maybe a drop of matting ajent?

(could be the camera)

Nick J
19-09-09, 04:12 PM
I think the grey looks too metalic.or is it the camera bringing it out?

The grey on the mirror caps looks too glossy,maybe a drop of matting ajent?

(could be the camera)

The colours are all a satin finish, But some have a little more texture than others and thats what your seeing. The mirrors are'nt at all glossy its just down to my camera picking up the smooth finish. All colour chips and colours shown appear totally different in the flesh to be honest! Im sure as a painter you'll know exactly what I mean. ;)

Nick.

lee-loon
19-09-09, 04:18 PM
Thought so,

nexa aqua base?

Nick J
19-09-09, 04:21 PM
Thought so,

nexa aqua base?

No fella.... Glasurit products all round.

shaun larnder
24-09-09, 11:09 AM
Stumpy mirrors look good, wasnt sure if they were going to suit it tbh, but they do look good in grey.
Great find on the doors. When you have got it all painted up etc i will have to pop up and have a look if im passing by.

Nick J
30-09-09, 06:59 PM
Stumpy mirrors look good, wasnt sure if they were going to suit it tbh, but they do look good in grey.
Great find on the doors. When you have got it all painted up etc i will have to pop up and have a look if im passing by.

Hi Shaun, It may be a while before its all done to be honest but It gets closer with every passing week with parts accumulating etc. Yours always welcome to drop in if your ever passing by fella. :)